Rebecca Yarros has begun revealing the characters who will be featured in her upcoming Empyrean series novella, "Threshing Day." The book, set to release on September 29, 2026, will explore the pivotal Threshing Day event for thirteen different rider cadets from the world of "Fourth Wing." Details about the novella were scarce until recently, with its announcement coming only a few months before its release.
Threshing Day is a critical ritual at Basgiath War College, where rider cadets attempt to bond with a dragon. Failure can lead to repeating the academic year or death, while success grants a lifelong companion and the status of a rider. Violet, the protagonist of "Fourth Wing," bonded with Tairn and Andarna during her first year, an experience that forms the backdrop for the stories in "Threshing Day."
Yarros has been unveiling the featured characters through a series of quotes posted on Instagram. Fans are invited to guess which dragon the quote belongs to before Yarros reveals the character and their bonded dragon the following day. This interactive approach has gradually built anticipation for the novella.
Confirmed "Threshing Day" Characters
Four characters and their dragons have been confirmed through these social media posts:
- Marbh, Brennan's dragon, associated with the quote: "You have yet to earn a first name while your last overpowers it."
- Cath, Dain's dragon, linked to the quote: "Do you give allegiance to the codex while you ride the edge of Malek's doorstep?"
- Sliseag, Sawyer's dragon, with the quote: "I will not attach myself to another rider who cannot adapt to loss."
- Glane, Imogen's dragon, whose quote is: "Would you like me to fly over and slice that sexual tension for you?"
Additionally, the Threshing Day chapter for Xaden and Sgaeyl was shared at the time of the book's announcement on July 15. Yarros has indicated that Xaden's perspective will be available for free on her website, as is customary. It remains unclear whether this specific chapter will be counted among the thirteen stories within "Threshing Day" or will be presented as a bonus scene.
A fifth potential character, Aotrom, is speculated to have spoken the quote: "If I am five, then you are four." This quote is believed to be directed at Ridoc, a character known for providing comic relief within the series. Readers will discover the full roster of featured characters when "Threshing Day" is released.